2008 Cadillac STS

Cadillacs need V-8s, at least. We know that. Except that GM's most potent V-6 ever, a new direct-injection 3.6-liter, has come along. With its 11.3:1 compression ratio, it has 47 more horses than the 3.6 on which it's based. The 2008 STS V-6 is just 18 horses shy of and 22 pounds trimmer than the STS V-8. Keep the hood shut. No one will know.

The interior still suffers hard black plastic, particularly at the top of the doors, but it's Cadillac's nicest non-v interior until the 2008 CTS arrives.

For 2008, Caddy fights back with a new, direct-injection V-6 with 302 hp and a six-speed automatic. This powertrain, also offered in the CTS, provides 47 hp more than the old V-6 and only 18 hp less than the optional Northstar V-8. With it, the STS reaches 60 mph in 6.5 seconds. Other 2008 upgrades include the aggressive front fascia that is all the rage at Cadillac, active steering, and lane-departure-alert and blind-spot-warning systems.

For 2008, the STS attempts to dazzle its opponents with the chrome wattage of its bigger, fancier grille, chrome door handles, and--today's must-have style accessory--chrome front fender vents. Inside, there's revised wood trim and a new steering wheel. But the real substance comes in the form of mechanical upgrades, starting with a new engine that produces 302 hp.

That figure, by the way, is for the V-6, which Cadillac has switched to direct injection, adding 47 hp and 20 lb-ft of torque in the process. That makes the 3.6-liter GM's most powerful production V-6 ever. Now paired with a six-speed transmission, it provides the STS with brisk acceleration--lively enough to catch the Mercedes-Benz E350 sedan, which also claims a 6.5-second 0-to-60-mph time.

The new STS will be the first vehicle equipped with GM's new direct-injected 3.6-liter V-6, making 298 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque (up from 258 hp and 252 lb-ft for the outgoing V-6.)

The base V-6 model will receive a few other upgrades, including a standard six-speed automatic transmission and some desirable new options like HID headlamps, Intellibeam auto-dimming headlamps, a head-up display, and a new handling package on rear-drive models. That package will also be available on both rear- and all-wheel-drive V-8 models.

For 2008, Cadillac STS gets more horsepower, more electronic features, and bolder styling inside and out.

The Cadillac STS offers a smooth and powerful driving experience with warm and luxurious accommodations. The supercharged STS-V delivers serious performance but sacrifices some comfort and drivability. People who enjoy getting where they're going as much if not more than being there, but who pine for luxury touches and good old American V8 power, need no longer compromise. Come on home.